Need a Singapore Work Visa? Here’s What You Need to Know

Singapore has become one of the most attractive countries for foreign workers and professionals due to its economy, political stability, and exposure to different cultures. Singapore has long been a “melting pot” of Asia. Therefore, over a million foreign workers choose Singapore as their place of work.  Before deciding to pack your bags and move to Singapore, there are several work visas that you should know about to make it easier for you to work here and abide by the law:

Professionals

• Employment Pass

This type of pass is designed for foreign professionals, managers, and executives with a monthly salary of $4,500. Once you get a job offer, your employer must apply for the employment pass on your behalf. Remember that the pass needs to be renewed every two years for first-time candidates and every three years afterward. 

• EntrePass

For those who have the entrepreneurial spirit and are keen to start and operate a business in Singapore, this visa is the right one for you. Remember that you must at least meet one of the seven criteria for this pass, such as holding an intellectual property, having a good business or investment track record, or having a venture capitalist or an angel investor to back your business. Don’t forget to renew the pass after the first year for first-time holders and every two years afterward. 

• Personalised Employment Pass

For current Employment Pass holders looking for an upgrade, this pass may be the right fit for you. However, it is only for high-earning individuals ($12,000 for EP holders and $18,000 for overseas workers). Moreover, this work permit is only issued for three-year eligibility without possible renewals.

Skilled and semi-skilled workers

• S Pass

 This type of visa is designed for mid-level skilled staff with similar requirements of an employment pass. However, this requires a lower fixed monthly salary of at least $2,500.

• Work Permit for migrant workers and domestic migrant workers.

This is for semi-skilled workers who work in the construction, manufacturing, marine shipyard, process, or services sector, whereas for domestic migrant workers is only for females who, as the name implies, help the employer in regards to domestic issues, such as cleaning the house and childcare responsibilities.

• Work Permit for performing artiste

This visa is for foreign performers working in public entertainment outlets such as bars, hotels, and nightclubs. It is valid for up to only 6 months, and the worker may not apply for another work visa until one year after this visa expires. 

• Training Employment Pass

As the name suggests, this work permit is for training purposes only. Therefore, it only lasts for three months and is not renewable. Note that the worker must earn a monthly salary of at least $3,000.
   

Exemptions and working while on a visit pass

• Miscellaneous Work Pass

The Miscellaneous Work Pass is ideal for foreigners on short-term work assignments, such as speakers at a seminar, religious workers, or journalists. The pass lasts for 60 days and is not renewable. An employer or local sponsor is needed to apply on your behalf.

• Work Pass Exempt Activities

Want to become an exhibitor for an event held in Singapore, or are you a journalist covering a movie premiere in Singapore? Then, you won’t need to apply for a visa. You will only need to show and notify the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) your intention and proof of assignment. Remember that this exemption lasts up to 90 days per year.

• Student Pass holders

For those who study in Singapore full-time, you may work up to 16 hours a week during school term and full-time work during vacations. You don’t need to notify MOM or have a work pass; it would suffice if you are registered at one of the recognised institutions.

There are various work visas and permits you can choose from to work in Singapore. We hope that this article can guide you to choose the proper work visa for you.

Need help with a Singapore work visa for yourself, a spouse or your employees? Let Lanturn guide the way!

Contact us!